Political gridlock restricts Florida, the Sunshine State, from third-party sales of solar power. As of right now, Florida residents and business owners can only buy electricity from utilities. Liberal environmentalists and tea-party conservatives are working together to allow non-utility companies to install solar panels for consumers. The group is working to place an initiative, requiring more than 680,000 signatures, on Florida’s 2016 ballot that would allow more access to solar power, and less protection of utility companies with a monopoly on solar energy.

Florida has the biggest potential in the solar power market, but it is underperforming compared to other states. With 229 megawatts coming from solar power, Florida ranks 13th in installed solar volume, compared to California, with 8544 megawatts. The amount of solar power Florida generates is disproportional to the population of the state, with Florida ranking third most-populous state behind California and Texas. The change in Florida towards easier access to solar power would be a big step towards clean energy.

If third-party companies were allowed to sell solar energy, consumers would be able to avoid installation costs, and drive the price of electricity down. Florida Senator Jeff Brandes is a supporter of solar power, and seeks to reduce taxes for businesses who install solar panels on rooftops. Brandes comments, “we have these regulated monopolies that have worked very hard over the years to keep solar out. And now you’re seeing Floridians rise up and demand that they address solar.” With legislation on its way to Congress, the future of Florida’s solar energy looks bright.

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Virginia is a graduate from the University of Florida's College of Design Construction and Planning with a degree in Sustainability and the Built Environment, and a minor in Urban Regional Planning. Virginia joined the Front Street team in 2011, as an intern. Upon graduation, Virginia joined the Front Street team full-time as the Director of Client Services. Ms. MacKoul’s addition furthers Front Street’s continued growth and expansion within Gainesville and other North Central Florida markets. She was promoted to Director of Marketing in 2014 and now manages the firm’s team of interns and oversees all marketing and branding activity. Virginia was born in Boston and moved to Lee County, Florida in 1997. Virginia graduated her high school's International Baccalaureate program and started at the University of Florida with a focus on Architecture. Virginia shares Front Street's passion of giving back to the community and those in need. Virginia's hobbies include photography, cooking, football, movies, music, and spending time with her dog, Brinkley.

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August is already here! We're pleased to share all that this year has brought. We wanted to take a moment to reflect on all you've helped us accomplish this year. This month also marks 15 years for Front Street Commercial Real Estate Group. Thanks so much to all of our clients, friends, family, and fans for all of the support over the years. We couldn't have done it without you! Here's to 15 more years and many more! Here's a few of our announcements, featured listings, most recent closings, top news stories for the month, and upcoming events!

Seeing all the growth, development, and new concepts arising in Tallahassee can provide endless opportunities for small businesses and large businesses alike. How will your company adapt and expand within the rapid growth and changes in the market? Front Street is here to help you with all of your commercial real estate needs. Our mission is to impact our community, clients, and industry by doing commercial real estate differently.

Here at Front Street, we consistently strive to bring new restaurants and new-to-market concepts into the areas we do business. Whether it is finding a location for a new business, or finding another location for a growing business, we always work to provide the best quality service to our clients!